State Parks program aims to enhance public safety and protect waterways statewide
California State Parks’ Division of Boating and Waterways is now accepting applications for up to $2.5 million in grant funding aimed at improving public safety on waterways and addressing the growing issue of abandoned and unwanted vessels across the state.
The competitive funding opportunity includes two established programs, the Boating Safety and Enforcement Equipment program and the Surrendered and Abandoned Vessel Exchange program. Applications for both are open now and must be submitted by April 30, 2026, at 3 p.m. PDT through the agency’s Online Grant Application System.
“Enhancing safety on California’s waterways and protecting our shared environment can create healthy and memorable outdoor experiences for experienced and new recreational boaters,” said Division of Boating and Waterways Deputy Director Ramona Fernandez. “Thank you to the boating law enforcement community for their efforts in keeping California’s waterways safe and enjoyable for boaters.”
State officials noted the continued demand for these programs, citing 2025 funding totals that included 20 boating safety grants exceeding $1.23 million and 26 vessel abatement grants totaling $1.04 million.
This year, up to $1.5 million is available through the Boating Safety and Enforcement Equipment program. The funding supports local government agencies seeking to purchase or upgrade patrol boats, replacement engines, personal watercraft, search and rescue tools, and other enforcement equipment used to promote recreational boating safety. The grants are designed to supplement, not fully fund, local patrol operations and are supported by the U.S. Coast Guard’s Recreational Boating Safety Program.
An additional $1 million is available through the Surrendered and Abandoned Vessel Exchange program. This funding assists local public agencies in accepting surrendered recreational vessels and removing and disposing of derelict boats from California’s coastal and inland waterways. The program is funded through the state’s Abandoned Watercraft Abatement Fund.
To assist applicants, the Division of Boating and Waterways is offering virtual workshops for each program on March 24. The Boating Safety and Enforcement Equipment workshop will take place from 10 to 10:45 a.m., followed by the Surrendered and Abandoned Vessel Exchange workshop from 1 to 1:45 p.m. Both sessions will be recorded and made available for those unable to attend live. Interested participants can RSVP by contacting program representatives via email or phone.
Officials said grant applications will be reviewed and scored following the deadline, with award notifications expected to be distributed in August 2026.
Additional information, including details on past recipients and application resources, is available through the Division of Boating and Waterways website.
The California Department of Parks and Recreation, widely known as State Parks, oversees the Division of Boating and Waterways along with several other programs focused on preserving natural resources, protecting cultural assets and expanding access to outdoor recreation throughout the state.
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